Scientists can tell a great deal about us just by examining our teeth. Did you realize that our teeth reveal how old we are, what we eat and drink — even where on Earth we may have lived? Our teeth also carry significant clues about our overall health, including periods of stress or illness we’ve endured. In short, teeth are a lasting record of our personal history.
Taking care of your teeth might not seem so important but it is very necessary. Here are some hacks to taking care of those pearly whites-
Pay attention to your toothbrush- Just like your sponge cleans your body, your toothbrush cleans your teeth, So why leave it to get old and even dirty before you change it? You need to change your toothbrush every 2-3months to maintain healthy teeth. Otherwise, you’re just transferring bacteria to your mouth. When we brush, we’re able to easily reach the tops and sides of our teeth. But the surfaces between – which make up a significant part of our tooth enamel – need proper cleaning, too. This is why it’s best to clean between your teeth daily to remove food and bacteria and promote healthy gums.
Eat mouth cleaning foods – Foods that are firm or crisp help clean teeth as they’re eaten. We already mentioned apples (otherwise known as nature’s toothbrush); other choices include raw carrots, celery, and popcorn. For best results, make “detergent” foods the final food you eat in your meal if you know you won’t be able to brush your teeth right after eating. A study of Japanese men found those who drank more green tea were more likely to have healthier gums and teeth. It’s all because of an antioxidant called catechin which is found in the brew, so also cultivate the habit of taking a hot cup of green tea at the end of each day.
Baking soda equals toothpaste – Baking soda is great for teeth whitening and getting rid of stains so use it as you would use your toothpaste. You can also use salt as an alternative toothpaste. Just be sure to spit it out so it doesn’t count as sodium intake.
Stay fresh – To check the freshness of your breath, lick your palm and smell it while it’s still wet. If you smell something, it’s time for a sugar-free breath mint. Shopping for mouthwash? Make sure it is alcohol-free. Most over-the-counter mouthwashes have too much alcohol, which can dry out the tissues in your mouth, making them more susceptible to bacteria.
Make brushing a habit– Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush. The size and shape of your brush should fit your mouth allowing you to reach all areas easily.